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11 Quotes to Remember When Your Relationship Is Suffering

June 14, 2017 by Power of Positivity

Conflict is only one part of a romantic relationship, not the whole of it. When your partnership is suffering, it can seem like the current conflict is the most important part, but it’s not.

Let’s look at some quotes to remember when you’re not in a good place in your relationship.

11 Quotes to Remember When Your Relationship Is Suffering

1. Surround yourself with people who illuminate your path.

– Kristen Butler, founder Power of Positivity

Don’t give your time or energy to someone who is unworthy of your efforts! Instead, surround yourself with positive people who will appreciate you. Remember that positive energy begets success and negative energy breeds poor outcomes.

2. Embrace uncertainty. Some of the most beautiful chapters in our lives won’t have a title until much later. – Bob Goff

According to a study in the journal Social Psychology and Personality, relationships may seem to suffer for a time. Researchers say when you go through a breakup, your friends might not be supportive.

The social stigma of being in a newer relationship could be a good thing. “It may be, for example, that those involved in shorter relationships construe the salience of social stigma as an indicator of things to come and therefore focus on the obstacles and challenges they will need to surmount in their relationships, while those involved in longer relationships may recall all of the hardships and challenges they have already overcome in their relationships and see the future as all the brighter.“

Words of wisdom

3. Believe good things will happen and they will

See things from a positive perspective in your relationship, which may be a total reversal from how you see them now. A man was going to divorce his wife, but he decided to hug her after his therapist told him to tell his wife he wasn’t angry with her again, as if this time, his wife wasn’t wrong. If you believe your partner to be wrong, you are going to see only the things that prove yourself to be right, not the small loving acts that your partner does when they aren’t annoying you.

Want to read more positive quotes like this?

4. A woman is unstoppable after she realizes she deserves better.

5. Go and love someone exactly as they are.

And then watch how quickly they transform into the greatest, truest version of themselves. When one feels seen and appreciated in their own essence, one is instantly empowered. Never enter into a romance with the intention to change somebody. This mindset only sets you up for a rocky road ahead.

6. Sometimes you need to take a break from everyone.

Sometimes you need to spend time alone, to experience, appreciate, and love yourself.

Researchers in the American Journal of Family Therapy state that working on our own emotional intelligence skills leads to better relationship happiness now and in the future. The researchers suggest that “Better perception, understanding, managing, and harnessing of emotions in the self may lead individuals to do better in and be more satisfied with romantic relationships.

For instance, (1) higher levels of self-management of emotions may lead to more relationship satisfaction; (2) better understanding of others’ emotions in conjunction with insight into one’s own emotions may lead individuals to enter relationships with more compatible partners; (3) higher levels of emotionally competent behavior may make it more likely that individuals will establish and maintain mutually satisfying relationships; and (4) some of these emotionally skilled behaviors may be observed and acquired by relationship partners, leading to further increases in relationship satisfaction.”

7. Blessed is the person who hears ‘I love you’ daily.

8. Notice people who make an effort to stay in your life.

The truest friends are those who are with you through the best and the worst days. Take note of those who support you during your darkest moments and those who flee at the first sign of trouble. This data will help you draw nearer to the most positive people.

9. I’m grateful to wake up and know that I have another chance.

Live like you’re in the movie Groundhog Day.

10. If you still talk about it, you still care about it.

You are giving energy to what you care about by speaking it aloud. That means that if you are still talking about your relationship even though you are suffering, you still clearly care deeply about it.

11. I’ve learned that no matter how much I care, some people just don’t care back.

I’ve learned that you cannot make someone love you. All you can do is be someone who can be loved. The rest is up to them. I’ve learned that it takes years to build up trust. Plus, it takes only seconds to destroy it. You are a loveable person who deserves the best in life. Accept nothing less!

10 Reasons Every Person Should Know About the Law of Attraction

June 14, 2017 by Power of Positivity

So are you wondering about the Law of Attraction?

“Doubt and worry freezes people. Don’t sit wondering if you can do something. Just go and do it. Doubt of any kind can be ended with action.” – Bob Proctor

The first half of this article is for those unfamiliar with the Law of Attraction or who wish to know more. Then, the second half discusses ten reasons people should know about the practice.

About the Law of Attraction

In simple terms, The Law of Attraction (LOA) is the ability to attract into our lives whatever we intend. Besides LOA, you might hear the term manifestation.

In the history books, LOA is thought to have spawned out of the New Thought Movement. Furthermore, this philosophical movement supposes that “Infinite Intelligence (is) everywhere, the spirit is the totality of real things, true human selfhood is divine, divine thought is a force for good, sickness originates in the mind, and “right thinking” has a ‘healing effect.’”

In practical terms, LOA teaches the following:

People and thoughts form pure energy. Of course, these can be positive or negative. Undoubtedly, individual ideas are the most potent influences in one’s life. Additionally, those thoughts connect with the Universes’ energy.
Our thoughts are classified as either “limiting or self-destructive (‘negative’) thoughts” or “empowered, adaptive (‘positive’) thoughts.”
“Like energy attracts like energy,” and a person can work on increasing good energy. This knowledge will improve various aspects of life (e.g., health, financial, interpersonal, and spiritual.)
Should a person’s usual disposition be negative, LOA teaches the mind to reframe such thoughts. Because they use cognitive reframing techniques, affirmations, and creative visualization, it’s naturally effective.
Our thoughts produce energy, which is either “in tune” or “out of tune” with Universal Law. This Law ultimately determines what a person “receives.” It can be good or bad.

Rationale

Now, regardless of whether one is an ardent believer or a skeptic of the New Thought movement, there is no denying the presence of experts espousing the scientific rationale behind LOA and similar teachings. For example, think of Buddhist Meditation.

Dr. Srini Pillay, a Psychiatrist, Brain Researcher, and professor at Harvard Medical School, writes about LOA:

“Recent brain imaging studies are rapidly showing that the brain does conform to its function to the ‘Law of Attraction’…Anxious people make other people worried, and fearful people make other people afraid. Similar principles apply to happiness, and expected reward, when our brains will light up, centers that correspond to these emotional states in others (do as well)… ‘contagious actions,’ ‘contagious feelings,’ ‘intention action connections and ‘attention action connections all support the ‘law of attraction,”

Dr. Pillay concludes, “Underlying all of these ideas is the notion of connection – we are connected within and without…The depth of our feelings and actions is a critical variable in ‘attracting’ what we want to our lives.”

Things we should know about LOA

It’s helpful to know that LOA practitioners are similar to those who adhere to religious doctrine or other belief systems. Indeed, they often seek to clarify misconceptions about the practice. Rightfully so. They also strive to inform and perhaps guide someone down their life’s path, which may involve the Law of Attraction!

Here are ten reasons people should know about the Law of Attraction

Remember this advice.

1. Universal knowledge trumps ours

Science estimates that the Universe originated 13.82 billion years ago. In that time, forces beyond human comprehension designed and implemented laws that continue to govern the Cosmos. Furthermore, in their 200,000 years on Earth, modern human beings have only scratched a thin layer of the Universe’s secrets.

In other words, the Universe possesses wisdom beyond human understanding. More importantly, we can communicate with this wisdom.

2. Initial resistance is common

LOA practitioners face the same opposition we all do when introduced to a new way of thinking. Learning and understanding the concept of LOA or being inspired by its teachings and methodology is not the same as true belief. It’s normal and healthy to question things. This is something that the LOA adequately addresses and encourages.

3. Our “inner world” requires evaluation and work

Thus, to change our thoughts – thus, our circumstances – we must evaluate and work on our inner world of thoughts and beliefs. Of course, “work” in this sense means acknowledging any internal turbulence or negative thinking patterns and addressing them.

4. “Divine” timing is everything

LOA teaches that there’s a plan for everyone’s life and that the manifestation of this plan requires patience. Furthermore, the intentions we’ve set for our life may not come to fruition until we acquire specific knowledge that the Universe necessitates.

The word Divine means different things to different people. For some, it’s universal energy; for others, it is fate, karma, or a Creator. You may call this force whatever you wish, but you can’t deny its presence!

5. The Universe requires our participation

Some religions teach “complete surrender” to a Creator. And others forbid specific acts, calling them “sinful.” However, the LOA teaches no such dogma. Instead, it does compel individuals to make their intentions known to the Universe. Thus, they believe in co-creation. Because of this belief, they form a partnership with the Cosmos’ energy to achieve our aims.

6. Don’t fake your emotions

Law of Attraction encourages the honest expression of emotion to acquire the things which we seek. A founding tenet of LOA is that the Universe sends back the energy it receives. Therefore, it’s good for those to wait until they’re happy or at peace before making their intentions known.

7. LOA isn’t intended to manipulate

A small minority within the LOA community believes that Universal Law can be used to control others. This viewpoint is not only woefully inaccurate. Additionally, it insults those who use LOA’s methods to better themselves and their world.

8. Letting go is a necessary skill

Since what we receive from the Universe depends on the energy we emit, letting go of internal conflict is a skill we must all learn. Many who practice LOA are minimalists and don’t require much to love; thus, they’re less vulnerable to being hurt by external influences. They’ve mastered the skill of letting go.

9. You have a spiritual support system

Many within the LOA community are very spiritual people. This deep sense of spirituality involves believing in immaterial, good forces such as angels or spirit guides. Moreover, these forces can reassure someone of their path and reinforce their faith.

10. NOT everything that happens in life is your fault

One common misconception people have about LOA is that it teaches people to believe everything wrong in their life is of their own doing. However, what Law of Attraction does explain is transcendence. This is the belief that the Universe helps us learn, grow, and fulfill our destiny. However, practitioners still acknowledge that some things are out of our control and indeed beyond human comprehension.

10 Reasons People Annoy Their Partner (And How to Avoid it)

June 13, 2017 by Power of Positivity

Ask anyone (even yourself) to define a good partner. What comes to mind? Common interests? Total honesty? Someone they can be themselves around? Plenty of intimacy? It may just be the idea of a solid, happy, and healthy relationship.

All of the above-mentioned “answers” are common and predictable.

But what many people don’t contemplate are the dynamics that exist within an intimate relationship. There comes the point when the “boring” and “unsexy” things about someone become anything but, and the “little peccadillos” become major annoyances.

Using information gathered via a nationwide survey of 1,035 couples, we list the top 10 things a person does that annoys their partner. As we’ll see, the answers are a mix of “big” and “small,” obvious and obscure. Regardless, we’ll see that the little things do indeed matter – both for better or for worse. (Why does that sound familiar?)

Here the ten things that annoy your partner:

“It’s great to find that one special partner you want to annoy for the rest of your life.” – Rita Rudner

1. Having selective listening (40%)

Get ready for the shock of your lifetime. Ready? People don’t always fully listen. A mind-blowing revelation, we know.

To be more specific, selective listening is unconsciously applying filters to whatever is said. We use selective listening to get a “general idea” or “summary” of what our better half is saying.

Needless to say, our partner doesn’t appreciate when we halfheartedly listen while they’re speaking – especially if we’re zeroed in on something (read: multitasking) else of relative unimportance.

Solution: read up on active listening and give it some practice.

2. Snoring (39%)

Did you give snoring much consideration when you were in the dating phase? Probably not. Yet, it’s the second most annoying behavior according to their partner. (Wait until you see what it ranks above.)

We’re here to help; not criticize. Snoring occurs when air cannot pass unobstructed through the nose and throat during sleep. It’s a physiological thing and requires some intervention.

Solution: There are plenty of ways to fix snoring; from using a body pillow and good sleeping habits, to using nasal strips and staying hydrated. Read up and find what works for you.

3. Being a control freak at times (26%)

It doesn’t matter if we’re in a long-term relationship or not, people despise any and all “authoritarian” type behavior – and understandably so. We may be able to put up with an overzealous boss, but we shouldn’t have to from our partner.

Solution: for the recipient, maintain your calm and assert your ground. For the controller, they’re your g-dang lover – ease up; or educate yourself on what it entails to be a “control freak” and do something about it.

4. Not being as financially responsible (20%)

The good news is sucking at money management is less annoying than snoring. The bad news is that financial stress is the leading cause of divorce.

Marriages or any other long-term relationship that does persevere through money troubles is because (a) the more financially literate spouse takes control, or (b) the financially-illiterate spouse changes their ways.

Solution: See (a) or (b). When in doubt, choose (a). Money issues are not a reason to put your relationship at risk.

**5. Bodily ahem peculiarities (19%)**

Yes, we’re referring to excessive burping, cursing, farting, nose-picking, or any other immature, unhygienic behavior. This problem has more to do with the venue than the act itself. Everyone burps, curses, farts, and picks their nose – but not everyone does so within eyesight or hearing capacity of another human being.

Hate to be nitpicky (no pun intended), but repeated behavior of this type has no place in a civil society much less a relationship.

Solution: just go somewhere else and “handle your business.” That’s all.

6. Not contributing to household chores (18%)

Moern men are expected to participate in household duties. Sure, some men work full-time, and the woman stays at home and handles domestic stuff. That’s different.

Failing to contribute, in any meaningful way, to responsibilities around the house is plain lazy.

Solution: designate who is responsible for what at a given time. Stick with that schedule and be accountable.

7. Being “a slob” will annoy your partner (17%)

Yes, this means throwing your socks everywhere, not aiming for the toilet seat, leaving your dirty dishes around, etcetera, etcetera. Being a complete slob is inexcusable in a relationship; acceptable in a frat house, not so appropriate in a house-house.

We all differ in our interpretation of what is “clean.” Some habits are ingrained and need a simple reprimand from their partner.

Solution: resolve to clean up and remind yourself of this commitment. Just make an effort – your partner will appreciate it.

These fifteen gross habits probably really annoy your significant other.

8. Working too much (16%)

This is a tough one to explain, as each situation is different. We may work hard out of necessity or out of trying damn hard to give the family a good life.

The simple fact is that we need money to survive and meet our basic needs. In reality, we don’t need much more than that, no matter what our consumerist-driven society tries to sell us.

Solution: we can’t provide a blanket “prescription” for this situation. Everyone has different needs. The only thing we can recommend is to evaluate the reasoning behind the excess workload. Is it palatable or does something need to change?

9. Not getting along with in-laws (8%)

In-laws, depending on circumstance and perspective, can be a source of distress for someone. For example a quiet, reserved and modest person who is forced to continuously meet up with an inherited family who – at least on the surface – is comprised of bombastic, egotistical, status-driven knuckleheads, probably doesn’t get along too well.

Solution: look for the positive qualities in every individual. Take some one-on-one time and REALLY get to know them. What comes out of their mouth may surprise you. Or just ignore them. Whatever works.

10. Forgetting an anniversary will irk your partner (5%)

Your eyes do not deceive you. Forgetting an anniversary ranks last on this Top 10 list. That said…really?

Solution: remember your anniversary date – or any important date, for that matter. Mark it on a calendar, set a reminder on your cell, or post-date an email to yourself. Remember the important stuff and when it happened.

5 Signs You Give Too Much of Yourself

June 13, 2017 by Power of Positivity

Do you give away too much of yourself?

“Being giving may be rooted in a kind heart, but having the ability to keep this quality comes with a rational mind. A rational mind that makes the person adept as to when to give, what to give, and to whom to give; without damaging the self and others in the long run.” – Michelle Roya Rad, “Are You a Giving Person?”

It’s fair and honest to categorize people into one of three groups: givers, takers, and those in between. Most people fall into the third group, and there’s nothing wrong or abnormal about being a giver and a taker, so long as each action is given priority.

Then there is the minority who can be described as a “giver” or “taker.” The former group’s actions and behaviors stem from benevolence, while the latter group’s primary motivations are self-interest.

Individuals with a propensity to give are warm-hearted, unselfish, and empathetic. The giving – of their time and resources – manifests into feelings of bliss and joy, both for the giver and the recipient.

We need more givers in this world – a conclusion quickly reached when considering society’s problems.

Why do you need more balance when you give?

Without boundaries, however, the act of giving can, in fact, become counterproductive and unhealthy. Essentially, it benefits givers to balance their innate kindness with a realistic perspective.

Why is balancing the act of giving with rationality necessary? There are several reasons, but here are the important ones:

Protects you from being taken advantage of
Prevents self-centered people from entering your social circle
Stops enabler-seekers from asking for “help”
Encourages those you care (kids, siblings) for to be independent and self-reliant
Prevents potential feelings of regret and guilt

Now, a question: Do you give too much of yourself?

Here are five potential signs you may indeed give too much:

Let’s go!

1. You almost never say “No.”

The inability to say “No” can throw a wrench into your life’s “clock.” Have you ever agreed to something with a smile, yet inside you were cringing? Yeah, that would be a sign you give too much of yourself. You have a right (a right!) to say no, with or without explanation.

Do this: Keep your words short, polite and firm. (“I’m quite busy with this project. Hope you can find someone else.”)

2. You have no “me” time.

Unfortunately, selfless acts do not stall time. We all have things to do, people to see and places to go – leaving time for a little fun and sleep.

The simple fact is we need rest and relaxation. R&R is not an option. Your brain and body must refuel and recharge to be productive and happy (it’s biology!) Do yourself a favor and schedule some “me” time. If it helps, think of R&R as body’s fuel to be your best self.

Do this: Schedule (that’s right, plan) an hour or two each day for yourself. These one or two hours are yours; people should know their yours, and that it’s non-negotiable.

3. You’re everyone’s problem solver.

Say it’s 9 pm, it’s been a long day, and you cannot wait to kick your sore feet up and relax. Just as you’re ready to do so, *RINGGG*!

Next thing you know, you’re on the phone listening to Joe or Jane dwell on about their problems. Of course, you’re too polite to cut the conversation short, so you listen…and listen. After about 20 minutes, they ask for your opinion/solution.

Do this: Turn off the phone (if you can’t, ignore unnecessary calls), or have a designated quiet space. Most importantly, stop being everyone else’s therapist – you’re spread too thin already!

4. You have more drama in your life.

For some reason, you feel an underlying sense of stress and drama – and you don’t know where it comes. Even people who like a good scene have a certain threshold for theatrics. If you’re giving too much of yourself, you will open the door for more drama.

Do this: Think of the solution as an equation. More Giving (MH) + More People (MP) = More Drama (MD), or MH+MP = MD. Do what you will with this equation, but something’s got to give!

5. Your happiness is suffering.

While givers get pleasure from helping others, they’re only human. Elevated levels of stress and adrenaline can result in unintended consequences, which includes alterations to the brain’s chemistry. When this happens, it ‘s hard to predict the outcome, but too often the result is anxiety or depression (or like symptoms).

Do this: Please, for your health’s sake, do not push yourself any further. Not only will your mental and physical health suffer, but you’ll be in no position to help anyone. If your symptoms persist, here are some options:

Mindfulness or Meditation (natural and proven methods of stress reduction!)
Start saying “No.”
Practice deep breathing techniques.
See a counselor or therapist (many employers have an Employee Assistance Program, or EAP, that will help you in confidence.)

Final Thoughts on People Who Give Too Much

In the rapidly evolving tapestry of modern life, the act of giving is a beautiful and noble trait. It’s a reflection of our humanity, our empathy, and our desire to make the world a more connected and harmonious place. However, like all good things, striking a balance is essential. There’s an adage that says, “You can’t pour from an empty cup.” This sentiment rings especially true here.

By constantly giving and neglecting our own needs, we risk mentally and emotionally depleting ourselves. This diminishes our capacity to help others and can have far-reaching effects on our well-being. Remember, it’s not about ceasing to give or being selfish. It’s about maintaining a healthy equilibrium between caring for others and self-care.

It’s also worth noting that setting boundaries doesn’t mean shutting yourself off from the world. It means prioritizing, organizing, and realizing when to give and when to take a step back. By taking heed of the abovementioned signs, you can ensure that your generous nature benefits others without undermining your well-being.

Lastly, always remember that you are worthy of the same love, care, and understanding that you so willingly give to others. Embrace that, and you’ll find that you can give even more profoundly without losing yourself in the process.

Four Scientists Explain What Sitting Too Long Does To Your Body

June 13, 2017 by Power of Positivity

Today, we live in a world where modern machines do much of our work for us. That technology greatly eliminates the need for manual labor. Not to mention, over 34 million Americans have office or sales jobs. That forces them to remain sedentary for eight or more hours a day.

According to a report published in Annals of Internal Medicine, the average person spends more than half of his or her waking hours in an inactive state (sitting at a computer, watching TV, commuting to and from work, etc).

While technology brings apparent benefits, such as getting more done in less time, consolidating our efforts, and connecting us to others at lightning speeds, it also has many drawbacks.

Sitting down for prolonged periods can cause problems such as chronic back pain, poor posture, and even potentially deadly diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, and obesity.

If you spend a lot of time sitting down for your job, take a look at the specifics of how this can negatively impact your health, according to four experts in the industry:

Sitting Contributes to Brain, Neck, And Shoulder Issues

Moving our bodies means more blood and oxygen flowing throughout the brain. Consequently, it helps us maintain clarity and keeps our minds sharp. However, sitting for long periods of time slows the flow of oxygen and blood to our brains, inhibiting our ability to think clearly.

Also, slumping forward at work to stare at a computer screen puts tremendous strain on the neck. That’s particularly the cervical vertebrae, which connects the spine to your head. Poor posture also damages the back and shoulder muscles, as they become overextended due to leaning over a keyboard for long periods.

Back Problems May Come From Sitting Too Long

One of the most apparent problems occurs for most people in their backs, as bad posture contributes greatly to back pain, inflexible spines, and disk damage. Moving around causes soft disks between vertebrae in the spine to expand and contract, allowing blood and nutrients in. Sitting too long makes the disks uneven and compact, even causing collagen to build up around tendons and ligaments.

Also, herniated lumbar disks occur more frequently in people who spend prolonged periods in front of a computer.

Muscle Degeneration Due to Sitting Too Long

Sitting doesn’t require using your ab muscles, and if they go unused for too long, this can cause you to develop what’s called swayback, or the unnatural overextension of the spine’s natural arch. Plus, sitting too long decreases overall flexibility, particularly in the hips and back. Flexible hips aid in balancing the body, but sitting too long makes the hip flexor muscles become short and tense.

The glute muscles also become soft after prolonged periods of disuse, hindering your ability to take long strides and keep the body stable.

Sitting Too Long and the Deterioration of Organs

Sitting for long periods can cause heart disease, cardiovascular disease, and colon cancer. In short, these problems are caused by the overproduction of insulin due to inactivity and sluggish blood flow to the organs. Regular movement helps kill cancer-causing cells, boosting antioxidants that eliminate these free radicals from taking over the body.

Overproduction of insulin also causes weight gain, contributing to diabetes and obesity.

Sitting Too Long Can Cause Leg Disorders

Sitting too long will hinder circulation in the legs. This causes blood to pool around the ankles, resulting in swollen ankles, varicose veins, and even harmful blood clots. Another more subtle issue caused by prolonged sitting is that bones become weaker and less dense. Regular activity, such as running or walking, helps keep bones strong and thick. This might explain why many elderly people today have osteoporosis as society becomes increasingly sedentary.

According to the study, people who watched the most TV over the span of 8.5 years had a 61% greater risk of dying prematurely than those who watched less than one hour per day.

So, how can we combat this growing epidemic of inactivity?

Image source: DailyInfoGraphic.com

First of all, if you have to sit for long periods for work or other purposes, sit up straight and avoid slouching or leaning over your keyboard. If you have to, buy an exercise ball. This device forces your ab muscles to work and naturally keeps your body straight. You can also use a backless stool if you want something a little more stable than an exercise ball.

Secondly, make sure to get up regularly to stretch. How often should you do this? At least once every thirty minutes, according to experts. Get up and walk around your office for a few minutes as well. That movement will keep the blood flowing and allow your brain and muscles to function optimally.

Thirdly, yoga can help immensely keep the muscles flexible and allow the mind to relax and decompress from the workday. You can also buy a standing work desk, forcing you to do your work upright. This helps blood and oxygen flow more freely through the body, reducing the risk of blood clots and other dangerous health problems.

Research Reveals 7 Reasons to Cuddle Every Day

June 12, 2017 by Chris Butler

Do you cuddle every day? It turns out that a good snuggle makes a positive impact on your life.

“Our skin is our security system, our sensations detector and our gateway to the world around us. Touch is the very first sense we develop in the human embryo – less than eight weeks after being conceived, an embryo is barely 2.5 centimeters long and has neither eyes nor ears, but its skin is already highly developed.” – Vanessa Van Edwards: The Power and Science of Cuddling

A few things are necessary for someone to develop into a well-functioning person. Of course, food, water, and shelter are the three “essential” needs; but humans also require interaction with others. We also need touch – and we’ll explain why this is.

As Ms. Van-Edwards quoted above, skin is the first human organ to develop within the womb. A human embryo cannot see or hear but does have the sense of touch – just eight weeks after conception. Touch is also the last sense to diminish in old age.

Premature babies provide excellent insight into the importance of touch. Consider this study undertaken by Dr. Tiffany Field, director of the department of pediatrics at the University of Miami School of Medicine:

Randomized, controlled studies have documented greater weight gain in preterm newborns receiving moderate pressure massage therapy. These include our studies on preterm newborns who received five to ten days of massage therapy and showed a 21-48% greater increase in weight gain and hospital stays of three to six days less than control infants.

In other words, premature babies – often in a delicate, unstable condition due to underdevelopment – gained nearly ¼ to ½ of their original weight due to the touch. This accelerated weight gain stabilized the newborns’ health, who could go home in less time.

Beautiful stuff.

It isn’t just babies, either. While our preference for touch may change as we age, it remains vital to the brain.

7 Reasons To Cuddle Every Day

Here we’ll discuss seven reasons to touch, cuddle and hold each other! Some of the science behind the power of touch is quite fascinating. Enjoy!

1. Cuddling releases “feel good” chemicals

Oxytocin is a versatile hormone that plays important roles in social bonding and sexual reproduction. Cuddling is one way to release this “feel good” chemical, strengthening our connection with our partner. As you’ll see later on, oxytocin also produces other pleasurable sensations.

2. Cuddling strengthens the immune system

Both love and intimate touching stimulate the release of oxytocin. When we cuddle, our bodies create a cocktail of hormones that help fight infection. Put, intimacy (especially touch and cuddling) can provide a temporary boost to the immune system.

3. Cuddling can “take it to the next step”

When we engage in touch, intimate or otherwise, the brain releases a flood of dopamine. Dopamine is the brain chemical responsible for reward-motivated behavior and feelings of well-being. A warm embrace and kiss after a long day’s work, or snuggling while watching some TV, initiates a dopamine response, which can lead to some bedroom activities.

4. Cuddling strengthens a woman’s bond

Here again, the chemical oxytocin is at play. As mentioned, oxytocin can strengthen the bond in a relationship. This same bonding mechanism also applies to a mother and her baby. Oxytocin helps new mothers in other ways, as well. First, oxytocin eases the process of breastfeeding. Second, the chemical also encourages sleep – something a new mother desperately needs!

5. Cuddling curtails stress

In a study published in the journal Psychoneuroendocrinology (really?), researchers discovered the potent stress-reducing effects of oxytocin:

Oxytocin levels increase in response to a “wide variety of stressful stimuli.”
Suppresses physiological stress levels
Oxytocin lowers norepinephrine (an adrenaline precursor) and decreases blood pressure, heart rate, and cortisol (stress) hormones.

These stress-relieving properties are very helpful in our relationships.

6. Cuddling eases communication with your partner

We all have incredibly stressful days when nothing seems to go right. It may be difficult to summon the energy needed to communicate with your partner on days like this. This is where cuddling comes into play.

The odds are that your partner can ably interpret when you’ve had a rough day. Instead of dwelling in your negativity, initiate physical contact with your partner. You’ll immediately feel better, your partner will love it, and your loving behavior will communicate for you.

7. Cuddling benefits your brain and body

While oxytocin is the primary chemical associated with touch, cuddling can positively impact our brain – it does so by influencing the hormones cortisol and dopamine.

When we’re stressed, the body releases cortisol (“the stress hormone.”) Cortisol decreases our cognitive abilities, increases anxiety, and causes hypertension (high blood pressure.)

Dopamine is the mirror opposite of cortisol. Dopamine, aptly labeled “the pleasure hormone,” is responsible for numerous brain functions: attention, behavior, cognition, desire, mood, and – of course – feelings of pleasure.

It’s pretty amazing what cuddling can do. Hopefully, this article encourages some couples out there to do more snuggling!

Final Thoughts on the Human Need to Cuddle

The power of touch is essential to human health from birth until death. It helps increase happiness and benefits your brain and your body. So go ahead and feel free to ask your loved ones to touch, snuggle, or hug you every day. It benefits not only your health, but theirs, as well.

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11 Quotes to Remember When Your Relationship Is Suffering

1. Surround yourself with people who illuminate your path.

2. Embrace uncertainty. Some of the most beautiful chapters in our lives won’t have a title until much later. – Bob Goff

3. Believe good things will happen and they will

4. A woman is unstoppable after she realizes she deserves better.

5. Go and love someone exactly as they are.

6. Sometimes you need to take a break from everyone.

7. Blessed is the person who hears ‘I love you’ daily.

8. Notice people who make an effort to stay in your life.

9. I’m grateful to wake up and know that I have another chance.

10. If you still talk about it, you still care about it.

11. I’ve learned that no matter how much I care, some people just don’t care back.

About the Law of Attraction

In simple terms, The Law of Attraction (LOA) is the ability to attract into our lives whatever we intend. Besides LOA, you might hear the term manifestation.

Rationale

Things we should know about LOA

Here are ten reasons people should know about the Law of Attraction

1. Universal knowledge trumps ours

2. Initial resistance is common

3. Our “inner world” requires evaluation and work

4. “Divine” timing is everything

5. The Universe requires our participation

6. Don’t fake your emotions

7. LOA isn’t intended to manipulate

8. Letting go is a necessary skill

9. You have a spiritual support system

10. NOT everything that happens in life is your fault

Here the ten things that annoy your partner:

1. Having selective listening (40%)

2. Snoring (39%)

3. Being a control freak at times (26%)

4. Not being as financially responsible (20%)

5. Bodily *ahem* peculiarities (19%)

6. Not contributing to household chores (18%)

7. Being “a slob” will annoy your partner (17%)

8. Working too much (16%)

9. Not getting along with in-laws (8%)

10. Forgetting an anniversary will irk your partner (5%)

Why do you need more balance when you give?

Here are five potential signs you may indeed give too much:

1. You almost never say “No.”

2. You have no “me” time.

3. You’re everyone’s problem solver.

4. You have more drama in your life.

5. Your happiness is suffering.

Final Thoughts on People Who Give Too Much

Sitting Contributes to Brain, Neck, And Shoulder Issues

Back Problems May Come From Sitting Too Long

Muscle Degeneration Due to Sitting Too Long

Sitting Too Long and the Deterioration of Organs

Sitting Too Long Can Cause Leg Disorders

So, how can we combat this growing epidemic of inactivity?

7 Reasons To Cuddle Every Day

1. Cuddling releases “feel good” chemicals

2. Cuddling strengthens the immune system

3. Cuddling can “take it to the next step”

4. Cuddling strengthens a woman’s bond

5. Cuddling curtails stress

6. Cuddling eases communication with your partner

7. Cuddling benefits your brain and body

Final Thoughts on the Human Need to Cuddle

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Rise and Shine On! Master Your Day with the Ultimate Positive Morning Guide + Checklist

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**5. Bodily ahem peculiarities (19%)**

Rise and Shine On!
Master Your Day with the Ultimate Positive Morning Guide + Checklist